Those without a job may be in the market for private life insurance

The dire job market continued to make itself apparent throughout December as unemployment rates remained stable, albeit at undesirably high levels.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nonfarm employment payroll decreased slightly throughout December by 85,000 to bring the total number of unemployed workers across the country to 15.3 million.

The employment declines were seen most predominantly in the construction, manufacturing, and wholesale trade sectors. However, jobs in healthcare and temporary help services - which were likely buoyed by retailers' need for extra help during the holidays - managed to add jobs during the month.

Overall, while the unemployment rate remained stable month-to-month at 10 percent, it was still well above the pre-recession rate of 5 percent seen in December 2007.

Of those without a job, the survey also found that approximately 40 percent - or 6.1 million - had been unemployed for 27 weeks or longer and that number rose in December.

Because many who are unemployed also have lost their life insurance plan, those who have families find it may have it in their best interests to begin searching for a private insurance provider. Instead of simply jumping at the first offer available, comparing rates online may lead to a deal with much smaller premiums.